Let’s start with a little geography, because Saarland, Germany’s smallest state outside the city-states, deserves an introduction. The idyllic Bostalsee lies in the St. Wendeler Land, roughly between Kaiserslautern, Saarbrücken and Trier, not far from the French border. Overlooking the lake and beautifully embedded in the landscape is the Seezeitlodge, which opened in July 2017.
The History
The hosts, Kathrin and Christian Sersch, grew up in the area, and their roots go back to 1952, when Kathrin’s grandparents opened a bakery and restaurant in nearby Braunshausen. After a trip to Italy in 1970, her grandfather came up with the idea of a pizza that could be kept in the freezer until dinnertime. The idea worked: the pizzas were sold all over the country, and the brand, Wagner, became famous. Now that Nestlé owns most of the company, the family has returned to hospitality. Kathrin’s uncle opened a lovely hotel in Saarlouis, La Maison (very pretty indeed), and Kathrin’s family developed the Seezeitlodge.
The building is not one of those cool, modern wellness bunkers but a charming house that, despite its 97 rooms, still feels warm and welcoming. Much of the credit goes to the interior designer, Birgit Nicolay, who also did La Maison, and to the generous layout. All the rooms face the lake and come with a few quirky details, such as freestanding wooden bathtubs, four-poster beds and lovely accessories, complemented by natural materials and muted shades of white, sand and brown. Some rooms have rain showers and hammocks on the balconies, and the family rooms are well equipped for children.
The Spa
The spa is the centerpiece of the hotel. Since its 2023 expansion, it covers well over 5,000 square meters (more than 50,000 square feet), a real statement, so be prepared to indulge in quite a few treatments. The concept draws on ancient Celtic traditions (this was once Celtic land): there is an outdoor Celtic sauna village with a ritual site, smoke and fire pits, and a relaxation chalet overlooking the lake. There are also an earth sauna, a bio sauna and an herbal sauna, plus experts on hand to explain the philosophy. For those who simply want to swim, there are indoor and outdoor pools and a large natural swimming pond with daybeds. Since 2023, the hotel has also offered two-room spa suites with a private sauna, a whirlpool tub and a lake-view terrace.
The Restaurant
Given its roots, the family takes food very seriously. The kitchen works extensively with herbs grown on site and turns them into wonderful regional specialties. And since this is a family of bakers, all the bread is baked in-house. A matter of honor.
Ideal for
People who need a truly relaxing week off and would rather look for inner peace than chase sun and beaches.
Prices
Doubles from 249 euros per person, including breakfast and dinner. You can find the complete price list here.
Booking & Contact
Seezeitlodge Hotel GmbH
Am Bostalsee 1
66625 Gonnesweiler
Germany
Tel +49(0)6852/80980
